17th July 2008

New CEO For Blue Cross

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The Blue Cross, one of the UK’s leading animal welfare charities, has appointed a new chief executive, Kim Hamilton. Ms Hamilton will take up the role on 1 September 2008, following the retirement of John Rutter after seven years in the driving seat.

Kim Hamilton is currently chief operating officer at Nacro, an organisation that gives ex-offenders, disadvantaged people and deprived communities the help they need to build a better future. Previously she spent over 20 years at Citibank, working her way up the organisation to hold several senior positions including UK treasurer.

Diane Sinclair, chairman of The Blue Cross, said, “We are delighted to welcome Kim to The Blue Cross. Her strong financial roots and third sector experience mean she is perfectly placed to drive the charity forward.”

This appointment comes at an important time for The Blue Cross, which is implementing a series of strategic initiatives to extend the range and impact of its work. Plans include: expanding its animal adoption and veterinary services across the UK; extending its education programme; increasing the involvement of volunteers; and developing its supporter base.

Kim Hamilton said, “I am very excited and privileged to be joining The Blue Cross. The work that the organisation does is second to none, and it will be an honour to be part of a team who make a real difference by providing care, promoting the benefits of companionship and thereby enhancing the lives of animals and humans. I look forward to working with the governors, management team, staff and volunteers in continuing this excellent work."

As The Blue Cross chief executive, Ms Hamilton will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the charity, which last year achieved its largest ever income of £25.4 million, and spent nearly £22 million providing its charitable services to sick and homeless animals nationwide. She will lead an eight-strong senior management team, working to ensure that The Blue Cross continues to reach out to even more animals and people in need of its help.

Kim Hamilton is a keen animal lover and a proud owner of two miniature schnauzers, Hannah and Emmie, both eight years old. She added, "My interest in animals has been life long and I’ve always had pets of some description, from budgies and bunnies to cats and dogs. All of my pets, without exception, have been part of my family and have enriched my life immensely."